Milligan put in a full shift in defence as United disposed of Shonan thanks to goals either side of half-time from Masaki Fukai and Yuto Sato.

United move into top spot on goal difference ahead of Tochigi, who won 2-1 at Sagan Tosu.

JEF, who were relegated from the top flight in 2009, fell just short of promotion in Milligan's first season at the club last year, finishing fourth.

Elsewhere, Jade North's FC Tokyo retained third spot after a 2-0 victory at Fagiano Okayama.

However, North failed to make the Tokyo matchday squad for the clash.

In Korea's K-League Cup, Olyroos defender Luke DeVere put in a full shift as Gyeongnam FC defeated FC Seoul 1-0 to move into the semi-finals.

Elsewhere, Iain Fyfe also played a full game as Busan I'Park knocked out Pohang Steelers 2-1 to move into the final four.

DeVere's Gyeongnam will next meet Ulsan Hyundai, while Fyfe's Busan face Suwon Bluewings in the semi-finals.